THE body of missing mum Samantha Henderson is believed to have been found in a lake at Hamworthy.

Dorset Police confirmed a body had been found in the search for the mum-of-four from Corfe Castle in the lake at Ham Common today around 1pm.

The 25-year-old had been missing since last Wednesday with widespread and extensive searches for taking place since last weekend.

Detectives said the body is thought to be that of Samantha and her next of kin had been informed.

Her Majesty's Coroner has been made aware, although formal identification has not yet taken place.

The scene remained cordoned off while forensic investigators carried out examinations, and police told the Daily Echo it would remain closed to the public until at least today.

The search off the A351 near Corfe Castle continued yesterday.

Senior investigating officer Neil Devoto said: “Family liaison officers have updated Samantha's family with the development.

“Clearly, this is a very difficult time for the whole family and they have requested privacy. Her children are being cared for by relatives.

“I would like to thank the public for all their help during this investigation and their patience and understanding, in particular the communities in the Corfe Castle and Hamworthy area who have seen a great deal of police activity over the last week.”

He reiterated the appeal for information concerning the movements of Samantha's blue Peugeot 307 estate car with the registration HV04 ZFM being driven in the Lake Pier and South Haven Close areas between 3pm on Wednesday January 21 and 5pm on Friday January 23.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting Operation Cavalier.

THE partner of Samantha Henderson has denied killing her.

Appearing at Winchester Crown Court this morning, Dominic Isom, of Halves Cottages, Corfe Castle, entered a not guilty plea to one count of murder.

He is accused of killing 25-year-old Miss Henderson on January 21, and was charged with the crime on Tuesday this week.

Isom, 27, was remanded in custody to be returned to court for trial on July 13.